Background

Costco is a Fortune 50 company that operates a chain of membership-only big-box retail stores. Based near Seattle, USA, and with over 800 warehouses in 14 countries, Costco is one of the world’s largest retailers of food and a major provider of wood-derived products such as toilet paper, tissue, paper towels, flooring and furniture. The company's current wood procurement policy is embedded in their Forest Conservation Commitment.

Scope of work

In Year 1, Costco will participate in Forests Forward under the Market action area. Responsible sourcing actions include: updating and implementing Costco’s forest policy, collaborating with other companies to increase the area of FSC-certified forest, and increase the availability of certified forest products.

Together, WWF and Costco will work to advance the implementation of their Forest Conservation Commitment. In addition, Costco will pursue opportunities for collaboration and collective action with other Forests Forward participants, explore opportunities for landscape investments in Year 2 onward, and promote the production and use of sustainable natural rubber, among other activities.